Festive Update, A Message from Rutland & Melton Inspector Darren Richardson
As the holiday season reaches its peak, the Melton and Rutland Neighborhood Policing Area (NPA) has issued a firm but festive update to the community. Following a final pre-Christmas briefing with a certain "very important person" from the North Pole, Inspector Darren Richardson has confirmed a clear division of labor for the coming days.
The agreement is simple, while Santa’s team focuses on the nice, Team Melton & Rutland will be staying busy with the naughty.
The local policing team has been working around the clock to ensure the festive period remains peaceful for residents. Recent successes include:
A Failed Game of Hide and Seek: A prolific offender, recently released from prison, attempted to evade officers in a "festive game of hide and seek." The police won. He has been returned to prison and is expected to remain behind bars until November 2026.
Drug Enforcement: This week officers arrested an adult male on suspicion of involvement in the supply of Class A drugs. He currently remains under investigation as part of the force's commitment to tackling substance-related crime.
A Year of Action: Throughout 2025, Team Melton & Rutland has made a total of 781 arrests, including 229 individuals suspected of domestic abuse.
The Inspector highlighted two critical areas of focus for the remainder of the holiday period:
Road Safety: Targeting drink and drug-drivers remains a top priority. Patrols will continue at high intensity throughout the Christmas and New Year period to keep the roads safe for families.
Domestic Abuse Support: While Christmas is a time of joy for many, the police acknowledge it can be a period of increased tension and risk in some households. Inspector Richardson is urging anyone affected by domestic abuse to reach out, emphasising that "you are not alone."
How to Get Help
If you are in danger or need to report a crime, please use the following channels:
| Service Type | Contact Method |
| Emergency | Call 999 |
| Non-Emergency | Call 101 or report online via the |
| Confidential Support | Freeva Helpline: 0808 80 200 28 (Freephone, does not show on bills) |
"The message is clear: if you’re naughty, we will deal with you. Let’s keep Melton & Rutland safe together. Have a wonderful Christmas, stay safe, and enjoy."
Inspector Darren Richardson
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